LeBron James future is the subject of speculation amid a difficult stretch of results and form with the LA Lakers.
The LA Lakers are 13-11 for the season, a record that places the team only in eight place in a competitive Western Conference.
The poor form has led to questions over LeBron James‘ future – tied into speculation the Golden State Warriors want to acquire a superstar.
The Warriors made a play to sign LeBron James last season before the February deadline, although failed to reach an agreement.
Photo by Todd Kirkland/Getty ImagesLeBron James situation
LeBron James is one of more than 80 players who will become eligible for trade after December 15, per conditions of the new contracts they signed in the summer.
James has a ‘no trade clause’ in his deal, yet this only applies to trades being made without his permission. Usually if a team decides to trade a player, the player cannot veto it.
Speaking on First Take, Kendrick Perkins says he understands LeBron James’ wishes will influence any decision.
The ESPN analyst explained: “Now my sources tell me that if LeBron James at any point comes out and says that he wants to be traded, or he wants to entertain it, then they are going to entertain it.
“It ain’t no holding him back.”
This tallies up with claims from Brian Windhorst that last season when the Warriors reached out, the Lakers asked LeBron James what he wanted to do.
LeBron James battling against the clock, and so are the Warriors
LeBron James is now 40, in the twilight of his career. But he chose to re-sign with the LA Lakers in the summer, when he could have gone anywhere.
The Golden State Warriors meanwhile have their own battle against the clock to contend with, keen to maximize Stephen Curry’s own window to win.
The Warriors are keen to acquire a superstar, with one analyst tipping Zach LaVine to make the move.
They have also been touted as a destination for Jimmy Butler, amid the chance he leaves Miami Heat at this late stage of his career.